Special Considerations for Recreation Opportunities on Public Lands

Most of the public lands are accessible by way of state and county public roads. However, some public lands are scattered and do not have legal public access. Permission from landowners is required to use or cross private lands to reach isolated blocks of public land. It is important that users check out the access to lands they want to use well in advance of their outing.

Camping is allowed on all public lands unless posted otherwise. Camping is limited to 14 days in any one location. Camp sites must be moved at least 30 air miles after 14 days.

Most of the public lands are remote with few, to no, facilities. Users should carry their own drinking water, food, first-aid supplies, tools, etc.

Off-road vehicle use is allowed on public land areas designated as open. Vehicle use may be restricted for various reasons in certain areas and will be posted as either limited or closed to off-road vehicle use.

All off-highway vehicles (OHVs) must be registered in the state of Colorado. You must purchase a Colorado OHV registration regardless if they are registered in another state.

As of July 1, 2008 the Colorado Parks & Wildlife (CPW) and other state law enforcement officers will be able to enforce motorized vehicle restrictions on public lands.

Use legal firewood only for campfires (no firewood with nails, screws, or other metal hardware). Gather only dead and down wood.

All campfires must be properly extinguished when unattended.

Carry out all trash and garbage.

Use only certified weed free hay, straw and mulch on State, CPW and federal lands.

Respect the rights and privacy of others.

Help protect archaeological, paleontological & cultural resources by taking only pictures and report any instances of damage or collection.

All private property and State Land Board lands are closed to public access without landowner permission or otherwise posted open to the public.